#USA #San Mateo #KDDI #BizStack #MODE Inc.

Overview

In an effort to enhance operational efficiency and improve safety in field activities, MODE, Inc., a trailblazer in AI applications, has embarked on a partnership with KDDI Smart Drone, which specializes in drone port technologies. The collaboration focuses on utilizing their remote operations service and integrates BizStack, a field-focused AI-driven application that supports real-time operational assistance through conversational interactions.

This initiative is a result of the business partnership declared in May 2025 and aims to promote data utilization gained from drone operations. As advancements in technology continue, both companies are dedicated to optimizing field operations by leveraging aerial data collection and AI capabilities.

Understanding BizStack

BizStack is innovative in its approach, designed to understand the live conditions of various work environments and provide operational support via a user-friendly chat interface. It addresses critical challenges such as labor shortages and the overspecialization found in industries like construction, manufacturing, and logistics by utilizing real-time data collected from sensors and cameras.

Through generative AI, BizStack can naturally report on current situations and assist in decision-making processes. The feature's intuitive design ensures that no prior IT training is necessary, making it easily accessible to diverse users across multiple sectors. As field demands evolve, BizStack will continue to grow as a robust AI application that supports the next generation of site operations.

Background Challenges

The construction industry faces significant structural challenges, including workforce shortages, an aging employee base, and slow reforms in work practices. With the enforcement of overtime laws in April 2024, there is an urgent need to enhance productivity and reduce workforce dependence in these sectors. According to data released by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the job-to-applicant ratio for civil engineering workers reached an alarming 6.34 as of August 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for effective workforce solutions.

In this context, the implementation of digital transformation (DX) using drones, AI, and IoT is increasingly recognized as a tangible solution for sustainable field operations, transitioning from a demonstrative phase to societal implementation.

Key Benefits of the Collaboration

By leveraging KDDI's drone port in conjunction with BizStack, the partnership allows for the automatic organization and storage of visual data captured by drones based on areas and timestamps. This integration introduces numerous conveniences to the workplace, such as:

• - Centralized management of varied data sourced from drones, sensors, and external systems on the BizStack platform.
• - Immediate access to essential data via PC or smartphone from remote locations.
• - An intuitive chat-based AI assistant feature in BizStack for effortless data retrieval.
• - The capability to monitor real-time video feeds once drone operations commence.

This innovation enables field personnel to obtain critical information without needing to physically visit sites, hence greatly improving drone operational efficiency and reducing labor demands. Notably, the data retrieval feature is set for release later this year, alongside a beta iteration of the real-time video monitoring functionality.

Insights into Remote Operations using Drone Port

KDDI's service offers a comprehensive solution for drone operations, managing everything from ownership and maintenance to pilot training, flight permissions, daily operations, and data management. Launched in July 2023, this service allows for a streamlined process where experienced drone professionals manage the drone port remotely, enabling clients to focus solely on acquiring the necessary visual data.

With over 7,400 successful flights recorded, this system has proven especially effective in efficient progress management on construction sites. One notable collaboration with Obayashi Corporation involved establishing a permanent drone port on-site for automated surveying to be conducted remotely over an entire year.

About MODE

Founded in July 2014, MODE, Inc. is a Silicon Valley startup dedicated to developing innovative AI applications like BizStack. By understanding the real-time needs of field operations, MODE focuses on improving efficiency and safety through digital solutions, particularly addressing the pressing issues of workforce shortages and operational reliance in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and logistics.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: MODE, Inc.
• - CEO: Manabu Ueda, Co-Founder
• - Location: 1840 Gateway Dr. Suite 250, San Mateo, CA 94404, USA
• - Established: July 2014
• - Business Focus: Development and provision of AI applications for field operations like BizStack.
• - Website: https://www.tinkermode.jp